S. Korea to allow New Zealand motorcyclists to cross DMZ

SEOUL, Aug. 28 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government said Wednesday that it will allow five New Zealand motorcyclists who are currently in North Korea to cross over the demilitarized zone (DMZ) as they make their trek across the Korean Peninsula.

North Korean media reported earlier in the month on the arrival of the bikers and said they have visited many parts of the country. They are currently in Pyongyang.

"The decision has been made to allow the New Zealanders to cross over the military demarcation line around 4-5 p.m. Thursday along the western 'Gyeongui' corridor," an official at the Ministry of Unification said.

He said the DMZ cross-over on bikes is the first of its kind. The motorcyclists have already been cleared by the North to make the trip, and they will be processed by the South Korean Customs, Immigration and Quarantine office upon arrival.

The official said permission will be given because the New Zealanders want to use the visit to wish for peace on the Korean Peninsula and highlight the reality of a divided country.

After crossing the DMZ, the New Zealanders plan to tour various parts of South Korea, including Jeju Island, before leaving the country on Sept. 17.